More KU students seek petroleum engineering

LAWRENCE — More University of Kansas students have been pursuing degrees in petroleum engineering thanks to a booming job market and good starting salaries.

The Lawrence Journal-World reported that petroleum engineering was one of KU’s smallest degree programs from 2006 to 2010. There were about 4 bachelor’s degrees per year in petroleum engineering then. But this spring, the program awarded bachelor’s degrees to 13 students.

Russell Ostermann, associate chairman of chemical and petroleum engineering, said more than 35 freshmen enrolled in beginning courses this year. He says petroleum engineering grads can expect to earn $89,000 per year.

Paul Willhite, a distinguished professor of chemical and petroleum engineering, said the high price of oil is helping spur hiring in the field, and many older petroleum engineers are ready to retire.

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